Top tips to thrive
For many, the most significant tip for surviving winter is creating a positive and grateful “state of mind.”
While many aspects of working with horses in winter can be challenging, with prior preparation and routine, you can thrive regardless of the weather. Our coaches have experienced many winter months and have lived to tell the tale. They understand that when the weather worsens, you must dig deep to keep motivated and not give up. During the years of handling the different challenges of changing seasons, there are a few things you can do to thrive, not just survive!
Our expert coaches’ top tips:
- Use weather apps and news to plan your next working day; if bad weather is forecast, pack the night before with plenty of options to protect you from predicted poor weather conditions.
- Invest in quality wet-weather gear and regularly clean and maintain your outerwear to ensure it lasts for your entire apprenticeship.
- Layer up so you can adapt to any changes in temperature. It is much easier to remove or add a layer than force yourself to cope with freezing hours due to insufficient clothing.
- If possible, prepare and take hot lunches kept warm in a thermos or quickly warmed up in the yard restroom. Hot food is an instant mood booster.
- Take regular breaks, dry out, and change outerwear if it is soaked through. Most yards have drying rooms or radiators to assist in drying out wet clothing.
- Finally, try to see yourself as lucky; you will see more sunrises and sunsets than most. You will be outside in the snow, which can be magical, and summer is always just around the corner.
This mini-guide has benefited from contributions from Coaches Alice and Chloe, who are proud members of the Sheldrake Training Team.
Their bios can be found here.